Victoria introduces new rental laws on bond claims, application fees and safety checks

Key points

• New Victorian laws now require landlords to notify renters and provide evidence before claiming money from a bond. Rental providers and agents are also barred from charging application fees, regardless of how many properties a person applies for.
• Gas and electrical safety checks are now required every two years for all rental properties. Minister for Renters Tim Richardson said the changes aim to strengthen protections for tenants.
• Further energy efficiency standards are due next year.